Living in gated lake communities offers numerous benefits. From the security of a guarded entrance to the exclusive access to lake activities, it’s an attractive option for many. Gating was introduced to keep intruders out but has since evolved into a more positive approach. For instance, lake communities in South Carolina offer a more welcoming environment and make it easier for residents to get to know one another.

Residing among some of the most well-known counties in South Carolina, you’ll be close to shopping, dining, and entertainment. Your home will also be on a private lake surrounded by tranquil scenery and wildlife. All that, along with the added safety and security benefits, makes gated lake communities a popular and desirable place for residents to live. What’s more appealing than enjoying the perks of a guarded entrance and the added benefits of lake life?

What is a Gated Lake Community?

A gated lake community is an enclosed body of water, usually with a guarded entrance. With these communities, residents have exclusive access to the surrounding environment to enjoy amenities such as an artificial beach, fishing and boating. Typically, gated lake communities are not located on previously protected lakes but on newly built lake developments. They can be found in small towns or cities with abundant recreational opportunities and ideal weather.

Benefits of Living in a Gated Lake Community

Living in gated lake communities in South Carolina offers many benefits, including access to several services. Here are a few perks of living in gated lake communities:

1) Peace of Mind

Feel safe and secure at home or out and about with a guarded entrance. You can access several services at gated lake communities, such as lifeguards and security patrols. Homeowners living in gated communities enjoy the added protection of a neighborhood watch.

Plus, gated lake communities in South Carolina require homeowners to keep their property in good condition. This means minimum maintenance for homeowners, but it also means that your property value is protected.

2) Private Lake Access

Lake communities in South Carolina are among the most popular and desirable places to live, and there are many reasons why. Living on a lakefront provides water access and beautiful scenery that other living options can’t match. In addition to the pristine lakeside views, you’ll also have exclusive access to boating, fishing or swimming activities.

3) Communal Living

As a homeowner living in gated lake communities, you can access several recreational activities, including tennis and golf. These amenities give you more opportunities to meet other homeowners and enjoy the social atmosphere of your community. Residents can network and create lasting friendships. You’ll be able to enjoy lots of fun activities together, such as potluck dinners, lakefront picnics or fireworks shows.

4) Lake Gardening and Landscaping

Gated lake communities in South Carolina provide residents with a unique opportunity: the ability to create a beautiful, natural landscape. When you live on a lakefront, you can enjoy the year round flora and fauna that live and grow near surrounding water.

5) Privacy

If you love the serenity of water and the peaceful atmosphere, gated lake communities are ideal. You will have access to your entire yard to relax and enjoy nature without worrying about what could be lurking nearby. Lake communities in South Carolina offer several amenities that cannot be found elsewhere. If you’ve been searching for a safe and secure place to call home, you’ll want to consider a gated lake community.

6) Wildlife Viewing

South Carolina boasts of its beautiful state parks, which include hiking trails, camping facilities and lush nature scenes. Lake communities in South Carolina offer residents many of the same benefits but on a more intimate level. For example, you could enjoy watching various birds from your home or a nearby pier. Not to mention gated lake communities at Keowee have numerous wildlife areas ideal for wildlife and bird watching.

7) Dining, Shopping and Entertainment

With lake communities in South Carolina, you’ll be close to several dining, shopping and entertainment options that can’t be found anywhere else. From romantic cruise dinner dates to an afternoon of shopping and strolling along tree-lined streets, there are always ways to spend your day.

8) Camping and Recreation

Lake communities in South Carolina offer more than just an escape from city life. They also provide a wide variety of vacation-worthy amenities. For example, access to swimming, canoeing, fishing and boating are fun and unique perks to living lakeside. You can enjoy playing golf or relaxing in the natural setting after a long day’s work.

9) Low-Maintenance Lawns

Your lawn only needs a little care when it is surrounded by water. Additionally, the grass is water-intensive vegetation, so keeping it in good condition is essential. Lake communities in South Carolina allow residents to protect their lawns from city pests with minimal maintenance.

10) Amenities

Lake communities in South Carolina offer several unique amenities to residents, including tennis courts, playgrounds and picnic areas. You’ll be able to enjoy fun activities with the neighbors or take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront to enjoy the natural scenery. Apart from the usual car parking, you may be able to secure a waterfront dock for your boat or jet ski. Here are a few water amenities you can expect from gated lake communities:

• waterfront docks and piers
• swimming, fishing and boating
• paddle boats and kayaks
• canoeing and pontoon boats
• private lakeside community parks
• beach volleyball

11) Ease of Communication

You’re most likely guaranteed a consistent cell phone signal in gated lake communities. This is incredibly convenient if you plan on taking many trips, keeping in touch with family and friends or staying connected to work. 

12) Convenience

Unlike other housing options, one can access lake communities in South Carolina from the surrounding towns and cities in just a few minutes. You won’t have to worry about driving out of the area for stores, services or entertainment. 

Tips for Choosing a Lake Community in South Carolina

Homeowners choose to live in gated lake communities in South Carolina for many reasons. You cannot discuss gated lakes or communities without mentioning the many advantages of living in one. Here are some tips for choosing a lake community in South Carolina:

1) Location is Important

You’ll need to think about the location of your lake community. You want to be close to stores, restaurants, entertainment and other amenities like parks. If you prefer to avoid driving far from home, you’ll want to choose a lake community near a major city or town. Living far from the highway or significant thoroughfare could make it difficult for you to get around.

2) Quality Lakefront Access

If you want a quality lakefront experience, you must know what’s included with your homeowner’s association fees. For example, if you need access to a watercraft launch, you might find it challenging to enjoy boating or fishing. You’ll also want to know the rules regarding waterfront access and amenities.

3) Square Footage

It’s essential to be aware of the square footage of the homes in gated lake communities. The size of the homes will give you an idea of how much space you’ll have to use for things like storage, recreation or entertainment. You also want to ensure you get a high-quality home for your money. For example, if you choose a smaller home, consider an upgrade package to make your living space well-rounded.

4) Amenities

Find out about the amenities available in gated lake communities. For example, some communities have play areas for children, tennis courts or a clubhouse for parties. 

5) Boating and Watercraft Lanes

It is important to know whether or not your community has a boating lane with deep water access. If you can access a boat launch, you can enjoy boating or water recreation. If your community doesn’t have a boat launch, you might need to rethink your decision to purchase a watercraft. Buying and maintaining your choice is easy and inexpensive with gated lakes.

6) Waterfront Amenities

You’ll want to consider whether or not you have waterfront amenities such as docks and piers. If you have access to waterfront amenities, you’ll be able to enjoy the lake water of your community even when the weather turns rough..

7) Security and Safety

Security and safety features are important in gated lake communities. For example, you’ll want high-quality surveillance and cameras around the perimeter of your neighborhood. You’ll also want to know about the services that are in place for security and safety. For example, you might have a gatehouse or a police substation nearby. You’ll want to take a look at the security and safety measures so that you can be sure that your home is well-protected.

8) Neighborhood Amenities

Look into any neighborhood amenities like pools, playgrounds or sidewalks. In addition to neighborhood amenities, you’ll want to look at the neighborhood design guidelines to ensure that your home will be close enough to the street and not too isolated. You’ll need to know the proximity to your neighbors, so the house is a comfortable fit for your family.

9) School Information

Complete research to ensure you know about the school information in the area. For example, you’ll want to determine how far your kids will travel to reach their schools, and the overall district ratings. Consider also child care or private schools if you’re interested in gated lake communities near private schools.

10) Physical Appearance

Consider the physical appearance of the homes in your neighborhood. This includes the color and construction of your homes. You’ll also want to know the number and type of driveways, garages and lots in your neighborhood. The physical appearance will give you an idea of how much work is required to maintain your home.

Choosing the Best Realtor for Lake Communities in South Carolina

Choosing the right Realtor for your move is important. A realtor can help you find the right gated lake communities in South Carolina. They will look at your wants and needs and find a community meeting those requirements. You’ll want to consider the community amenities, location and size of homes. You’ll also want to think about schools and childcare options to ensure you have everything you need in place for your family’s comfort.

You can look up online listings of lake communities in South Carolina to find the listing that best meets your needs. Be sure to communicate at length about your wants, needs and budget to guarantee you purchase the perfect fit for your family. You can also request a personal recommendation from a reliable Realtor. That way, you’ll get a short list of gated lakes to discuss with your Realtor and find the perfect home for you and yours in South Carolina. 

Conclusion

Gated lake communities in South Carolina offer affordable living and excellent community amenities. These communities have access to gorgeous lakes that everyone in the neighborhood can enjoy. They also provide excellent schools, safety and security and all of the comforts of home. You need to take a look at online listings of gated lake communities in South Carolina and do research to ensure that you are getting the right fit for your family.